Lilton S. Williams, Sr.

Lilton Sylvester Williams Sr., affectionately known as “Pop King”, was born on July 31, 1939 in Jacksonville, Florida, to Georgia Mae Nelson and Johnnie Lee Williams. He was preceded in death by both parents; brothers: Clifford James, Freddie King, George (Shine) King, Ronald King; sister: Colista (Penny) King; daughter: Robin Williams, and granddaughter: Gerovanie Reid.

Lilton was educated within the Duval County Public School system and received a high school diploma from Northwestern. He was a multi-sport athlete and often shared stories about classmates who were local Civil Rights leaders. A hometown hero in his own right, Lilton’s favorite pastime involved gatherings with loved ones; he was usually the person calling to extend each individual invitation.

An early interest in traveling sparked a long career in commercial transportation. He chauffeured a variety of passengers throughout Florida and surrounding areas. Although hobbies such as fishing, Solitaire, and Facebook commenting kept him entertained, nothing topped a solo or collective visit from family members.

Lilton thoroughly enjoyed spending quality time with devoted wife: Vivian Williams. They remained married for 55 years, until his passing.

His legacy lingers on through his wife, Vivian; children: Sheila Williams-Simmons, Phyllis Williams, Cynthia Binder, Lilton Williams Jr. (Cassandra), Brenda Williams (Mark), Milton Williams, Johnny Williams (Sulee Allen); grandchildren: Scherri Bryant (Wendell), Reggie Cullers (Patience), VaShawn Binder-Brown (Tommy), Brandon Williams, Ashley Ross, Tajmar Williams (Michael), Liltera Lewis (Kendrix), Mark Williams Jr., Antonia Majors, Terrell Williams (Deidra), Jose Majors, Vivian Williams, and 14 great-grandchildren; sisters: Lillian Thomas, Claudette Grant (Cary) and Beverly Scott.

Lilton Sylvester Williams Sr. peacefully transitioned under comfortable care on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. He eased into eternal rest, leaving additional relatives—several nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and special friends—with many memories to cherish.